Backpacking in Sikkim, India

Backpacking in Sikkim, India with mr.hotsia

When talking about India, many might think of big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Varanasi. But for mr.hotsia, Sikkim is one of the destinations that made me feel like I discovered "another side of India" filled with the charm of nature and truly unique culture. This small northern state bordering Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan was once an independent kingdom and is now a distinctive state within the Indian Union.

Routes and Travel to Sikkim

Getting to Sikkim is not easy for backpackers like me because you need to prepare documentsInner Line Permit (ILP)before entering this state, which can be easily obtained in Darjeeling at the Tourist Police Office, also known asForeigners Registration OfficeAfter getting the ILP, I traveled by jeep from Gangtok, the capital of East Sikkim, to other towns like Namchi, where I intended to experience the lifestyle and atmosphere of the Nepali community there.

The route from Darjeeling to Gangtok is beautiful and challenging. The narrow roads wind through valleys and the mist-covered Himalayas. I stayed inGangtokfor two nights to acclimate to the weather and prepare to explore other towns in Sikkim.

Namchi Town: Nepali Community and Simple Lifestyle

Namchi, the main town of South Sikkim, was my next destination. Located about 1,675 meters above sea level, it has a cool climate year-round and a population mostly of Nepali and Hindu people. I chose to stay here without prior booking because I wanted to truly experience the atmosphere of a small town growing in tourism while maintaining strong local traditions.

One of the most memorable experiences for mr.hotsia was staying with local villagers in a traditional clay kitchen house. I witnessed hand-made Nepali cooking, shared meals and fresh cow's milk tea in the morning. The warm and friendly atmosphere is hard to find in big cities. I also tried making MoMo, a local dish similar to Japanese dumplings but with a unique flavor, and learned about cow milking and making local liquor called Utumba (millet wine).

Namchi also has several important attractions such as Central Park, the town's focal point, and a giant Buddha statue which is a major pilgrimage site. I strolled through the colorful local market filled with handwoven fabrics, jewelry, and fresh local food. I also enjoyed Nepali songs from street singers that created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for tourists like me. (For more details, seeNamchi Town, South Sikkim, India)

Pelling: A Town in the Western Valley with Himalayan Views

From Namchi, I traveled to Pelling, a small town in West Sikkim located at 2,150 meters elevation. Pelling is considered the closest spot to view the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga peak. The nature here remains pristine and beautiful. In winter, snow covers the area, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Travel in Sikkim mostly involves shared jeep taxis between towns, which mr.hotsia found to be a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals. Pelling suits adventurous travelers who want to experience nature and culture in an authentic way. (Read more atPelling Town, West Sikkim, India)

Culture and History Blended in Sikkim

Sikkim has a fascinating history as an independent kingdom once ruled by the Namgyal dynasty before joining the Indian Union over 30 years ago. The majority population used to be Lepchas of Tibetan descent, but today Nepalis make up 75% of the population.

I learned that this place has religious diversity including Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, but Hinduism and Buddhism are the most prominent and harmoniously blended. The locals maintain ancient traditions and beliefs, evident in the temples and ceremonies I had the chance to experience firsthand.

Local Food and Markets

For mr.hotsia, food is a key part of travel, and Sikkim did not disappoint. Most dishes have mild flavors using fresh mountain ingredients. I tried freshly made Perring fried rice on the street, listened to Nepali songs from street singers, and experienced markets full of fresh produce, vegetables, fruits, and unique local spices not easily found elsewhere. (For deeper food stories, seeFood in Namchi Town, South Sikkim, India)

Accommodation and Preparation for Traveling in Sikkim

mr.hotsia chose to travel without booking accommodation in advance and found that lodging in Sikkim is generally cheaper than many big Indian cities, especially during the rainy season when prices drop significantly. However, in winter, which coincides with Thailand’s winter, prices rise noticeably. So if you plan to visit in winter, booking ahead is recommended.

I stayed atHotel View Pointin Gangtok, which was a good base for exploring nearby towns. There are also many homestays offering authentic local living experiences, such as in Namchi where I had a great experience staying with local villagers. (Read full reviews atHomestay with Locals in Namchi Town, South Sikkim, India)

Summary of Impressions from mr.hotsia

Sikkim is a small state full of unique stories and experiences: unpolluted nature, stunning Himalayan views, a harmonious blend of Nepali and Tibetan cultures, and the warmth and kindness of locals I met directly.

If you are looking for a destination not yet overrun by foreign tourists and want to try backpacking, Sikkim is the sincere recommendation from mr.hotsia. Whether traveling, relaxing, or tasting local food, everything impressed me so much that I want to return again.

Don’t forget to follow my travel stories and other travel information at hotsia.com, and watch videos of Sikkim’s local atmosphere and music that I have collected for you.

Watch music and atmosphere clips from Sikkim by mr.hotsia here:

• The singer from a small village in Sikkim
• Perring Fried Rice, a Nepali song from a street singer in Sikkim
• Sikkim, India by mr.hotsia